Learning Theories: An Educational Perspective, 8th edition

For learning cognition and instruction courses.

A comprehensive look at key learning theories and how they can be applied in today's classrooms

Learning Theories introduces readers to key theoretical principles, concepts, and research findings of learning and how to apply them as educators. It examines the relationship between theory and instruction, looks at the neuroscience of learning, and discusses the major theories of and key topics related to learning. A final chapter helps students consolidate their views on the subject.

The 8th Edition has been significantly updated with a number of new features and the most current thinking and research.

Hallmark features of this title

Real-world context

• Opening vignettes spark students' interest in the material to be covered.
• Instructional Application sections show how the principles discussed apply to real-world learning settings.
• Ch. 12, “Next Steps” helps students formulate their own perspectives on education and learning.

Comprehensive, thoughtful coverage

• Ch. 2 on the neuroscience of learning covers brain structures and development, and implications of brain research on teaching and learning.
• All major learning theories are covered, including behaviorism, social cognitive theory, information processing, cognitive processes, and constructivism.
• Motivation, self-regulation, and contextual influences all receive chapter-length coverage and help students understand how each impacts learning.

New and updated features of this title

Real-world context

• NEW: Section gives students a basic understanding of the goals and methods of data mining (Ch. 1).

Comprehensive, thoughtful coverage

• NEW: Chapter Critique sections and Reflection Questions at the end of the first 11 chapters gives readers a fuller, more nuanced understanding of theories and the research around them.
• NEW: Content sections cover positive behavior supports (Ch. 3), metacognition and epistemic thinking (Ch. 7), Neo-Piagetian theories (Ch. 8), self-regulation and technology (Ch. 10), and future developments (Ch. 12).
• EXPANDED: Coverage of growing topics with new research includes neuroscience (Ch. 2), constructivism (Ch. 8), and contextual influences on learning (Ch. 11).